Thinking of starting running?
Like many of us out there I thought it might be a great idea to start running once all the gyms and studios started closing. It felt great to have an activity to do outside, with no equipment! I downloaded an app to start me off, laced up some old shoes and headed out.
For the first couple of weeks I was enjoying it a lot! I went down to the lake every day, and was amazed at how my endurance was building one minute at a time. I could finally understand why so many people run.
Until one day I put on my running shoes and my left foot said NO. I felt a sharp pain running along the top of it that flared up with every step. I bought fancy new shoes with loads of support but the pain was still there. I had to listen to my body and take a break from my new sport.
I was reminded of how important my feet are - with so many small bones, joints, and muscles that work together to sup
port my whole body. Here are some ways we can give our feet some extra love - anytime!
Begin by sitting on your heels with your feet together. Tuck the toes under (you can use your hands to help you!)
Try and take some deep breaths here, taking breaks when needed and coming back to it. You can modify by bringing the knees onto a bolster. Don't stay if you're in pain. When you're ready to come out, bring your hands to the ground, uncurl your toes and tap out the tops of your feet!
I've been also stretching, massaging and strengthening my feet using some yoga balls (you can also use a tennis ball.) Try slowly rolling the ball forwards and backwards and side to side under your foot. Experiment with stepping down on it with your heel, then with your arch. Try picking up the ball with your toes. This can also help with tight hamstrings!
I'm looking forward to giving running another try - but only when my feet say YES!
- Jenn
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